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England have hopes of finally leaving a positive mark on a major tournament, having failed to win a knockout game since 2006, and having been handed their ticket home from the last World Cup after just two games.

A kind draw will (likely) enhance their chances of doing just that. But what are the best and worst possible draws on offer?

In terms of FIFA rankings, it looks like this:

Best:Russia, England, Iran, Panama

Worst:Germany, England, Costa Rica, Nigeria

(NB. Only two European sides can be placed together in a group, while there can't be more than one from other confederations)

A full strength world champions is the worst England can face (Image: REUTERS)

Russia are ranked 65 in the world (Image: AFP)

Of course, the FIFA rankings are a system that can be played.

Some associations have employed mathematicians to help them game the system and improve their rankings, which in turn helps there seedings when draws for major tournaments (and the qualifying process) are made; it's all about picking the right friendlies at the right time - a major reason why Italy have failed to qualify.

Given that, the rulings on nations from same confederations being placed together and - most importantly - the quality of the respective teams right now, then the best and worst groups England can hope for/against are arguably this:

Best:Russia, England, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia

Worst:Brazil, England, Denmark, Nigeria

It's probably best if England avoid the Danes (Image: Sportsfile)

Nigeria are the best of the fourth seeds (Image: AFP)

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What England fans can be thankful for, particularly after 2014, is that there is no dominant outlier in pot three - as was the case four years ago, when Uruguay were the most dangerous third seed (also in that group, quarter-finalists Costa Rica, were fourth seeds!).

As they showed with a comeback win over Argentina earlier this week, Nigeria are the most dangerous of the fourth seeds, while Denmark are well organised and possess a bona-fide matchwinner in Christian Eriksen - just ask the Republic of Ireland.

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After watching the Germany and Brazil games, how far will England get at the World Cup in 2018?